A Perfect Day Trip to Monterey 🌊

From the powdery sands of Carmel Beach to the dramatic cliffs and iconic Lone Cypress along 17-Mile Drive, ending with a serene sunset at San Carlos Beach—this coastal escape is pure magic. 📍 Welcome to Monterey Just south of the Bay Area, this charming seaside town offers: Carmel Beach: Sand so soft it feels like flour under your toes. 17-Mile Drive: A scenic route packed with postcard-worthy views (think: rugged cliffs, misty cypress trees, and crashing waves). Cannery Row: A revitalized historic street with seafood spots and boutique shops. Hidden Gems: Moss Landing State Beach (with its towering smokestack) and the tranquil San Carlos Beach. 🌅 Our Itinerary 1️⃣ Moss Landing State Beach (Morning Stop) Stumbled upon this quiet stretch on the way—perfect for a quick seaside pause. Spot the long industrial smokestack (quirky photo op!). 2️⃣ Cannery Row (Lunch Break) Grabbed fresh seafood at the market 🦞—don’t miss the clam chowder! 3️⃣ 17-Mile Drive (Afternoon Adventure) Entry fee: $12.25 (worth every penny!). Must-see: The Lone Cypress 🌲—a solitary tree clinging to a cliff for 250+ years. 4️⃣ Carmel + San Carlos Beach (Golden Hour) Watched the sun dip below the horizon, with seals bobbing in the waves. 💡 Why Monterey? No crowds—just wind, waves, and wandering sea lions. It’s not just beautiful; it’s therapy by the sea. #Monterey #CaliforniaCoast #17MileDrive #CarmelByTheSea #HiddenGems #PacificVibes #DayTripDiaries 🌊📸